Sovereign God
For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him.” Colossians 1:16
A friend walked into my office at church last Thursday visibly upset, and said, “I can’t believe the queen has died!” I confess I had no idea what she was talking about but as I began hearing news reports and reading a few articles about her, I learned more about Queen Elizabeth and the remarkable life she lived. Her reign of 70 years and 214 days is the longest of any British monarch and the longest recorded of any female head of state in history.
I did not realize that from the beginning of her reign, the Queen had consistently cited references from the Scriptures, particularly in her annual Christmas broadcasts. “To what greater inspiration and counsel can we turn,” she asked rhetorically, “than to the imperishable truth to be found in this treasure house, the Bible?” In her 2016 address, she said, “Billions of people now follow Christ’s teaching and find in Him the guiding light for their lives. I am one of them because Christ’s example helps me see the value in doing small things with great love, whoever does them and whatever they themselves believe.”
As remarkable as her reign was, it can serve to remind us of the greatest, eternal reign of our God. Human principalities and kingdoms rise and fall, but the Kingdom of God is secure and will never fall or fail! We have God’s promise that His Kingdom, where Jesus rules, in perfect grace, peace, and love will stand forever.
Through Jesus Christ’s sacrificial gift, we are members of His good Kingdom now and eternally. Thanks be to God our Father, Christ our Savior, and the Holy Spirit our Teacher, Guide and Comforter.
Gracious Lord God, You hold all time and peoples in Your hands. Your will is perfect and just, Sovereign Potentate. Thank You that our lives and our futures are secure in Your love and power. Amen.